People often spend a lot of time away from home over the holidays. Between your traditional family outings, work parties, gatherings with friends, caroling, Christmas shopping, and traveling to visit family, you won’t be around the house with your family pet as often as you normally would. So what do you do with your Goldendoodle, and how do you care for your dog over the holidays?
Goldendoodles are low maintenance dogs. They’re just as content cuddling and snoozing as they are bounding and playing. Still, you need to think about what’s best for you, your pet, and those around you. There are lots of different options. The method that works best for you depends on your pet’s personality and your holiday plans. Here’s a look at some of the ways to care for your dog over the holidays.
Bring your pet with you
Wherever it is that you plan on going, make sure it’s pet friendly. Bring a leash, food, and water, and have a plan for what to do with your pet if she starts to get restless.
Goldendoodles are great around people, but you still have to properly socialize your dog. If you don’t normally take your pet out in public, the holidays aren’t the ideal time to start.
Your Goldendoodle may sleep all day at home, but she might be more excited at your family gathering or a public place. Would you rather spend your time monitoring your dog or catching up with relatives?
Let your pet stay at home
For short trips where you will be gone for just a few hours, your dog should be fine home alone. Make sure that all gates and doors are closed, and there’s nothing that your dog could damage or get sick from if they decide to chew.
If you leave your Goldendoodle outside, make sure that there aren’t any places in the fence where your dog can get away. Get a chip and an updated tag if your pet doesn’t already have those things, and be mindful about pet theft.
Be sure to give your dog lots of attention when you are home with walks, playtime, fetch in the yard, etc.
Arrange to have someone check on your pet
If you’re going to be away for more than a few hours, consider hiring a dog sitter or ask a friend or neighbor to check in on your dog. Nobody likes to be alone for hours on end, especially if they’re used to being around people.
Your cuddly Goldendoodle is no exception.
Arrange a sleepover for your pet
Ask a friend, relative, or dog sitter to care for your dog over the holidays. It’s best if your dog is already familiar with the place they’ll be staying and the person they’ll be staying with. Make sure you know the person’s holiday plans and ask well in advance.
Board your pet
If you’re heading out of town, finding a kennel is the most convenient and least imposing option for caring for your dog over the holidays.
Do your research and find a dog boarding kennel where your pet will be happy and comfortable. Some dogs love the experience and enjoy being around other dogs. Of course, some dogs aren’t keen on this arrangement.
Try it out with your pet overnight before you leave your pup at a kennel for a couple of weeks over the holidays.
Traveling with a pet
Maybe you’re heading out of town for a few days and you want to bring your Goldendoodle with you. First, check and make sure that wherever you’re staying allows pets, even if it’s a relative’s house. If you’re driving, get ready for a road trip with your dog!
What about puppies?
Puppies – even easygoing Goldendoodle puppies – require more attention than grown dogs. Your adult dog may be fine home alone for the entire day, but puppies shouldn’t be left alone for more than a few hours.
Little puppies are curious; they spend a lot of time exploring and learning. They need to go outside more often, and they need to know that they are loved and cared for.
A small puppy doesn’t necessarily know that it’s bad to chew on electrical cords and expensive pairs of shoes. They don’t know that messes are to be made outside rather than inside on the carpet. Teaching and training your puppy is part of owning a puppy, and part of being a good pet owner.
Of course, Goldendoodle puppies are worth the extra attention! They’re are the cutest, cuddliest, and most affectionate dogs you will ever find. Call 501-524-1026 for information about our Goldendoodle puppies for sale.